Satisfaction with and usage of a hand neuroprosthesis

Abstract

Objective To measure the satisfaction with, clinical impact of, and use of an implantable hand neuroprosthesis. Setting Eight different medical centers. Participants Thirty-four individuals with spinal cord injuries at the C5 or C6 motor level. Interventions Participants were implemented with a hand neuroprosthesis that provides grasp and release. The neuroprosthesis includes a surgically implanted stimulator, implanted electrodes sutured to the hand and forearm muscles, and an externally mounted controller. Main outcome measure A survey was mailed to study participants, who were asked to respond to statements such as "If I had it to do over, I would have the hand system implanted again," using a 5-level Likert scale ("strongly agree" to "strongly disagree"). Results Eighty-seven percent of participants were very satisfied with the neuroprosthesis, 88% reported a positive impact on their life, 87% reported improvements in activities of daily living, and 81% reported improved independence. Participants reported using the neuroprosthesis a median of 5.5 days per week; 15 participants used the neuroprosthesis 7 days per week, and 5 participants reported not using the device. Conclusions The neuroprosthesis was used by most participants. The neuroprosthesis performed satisfactorily, increased users' ability to perform activities of daily living and independence, and improved their quality of life.